DURHAM, NC – Duke University’s women’s basketball program took a monumental step forward today, unveiling a significant achievement in their ongoing roster rebuild.  Coach Toby Fournier, in conjunction with the program’s leadership, announced the successful recruitment of five standout players for the upcoming season

DURHAM, NC – Duke University’s women’s basketball program took a monumental step forward today, unveiling a significant achievement in their ongoing roster rebuild.  Coach Toby Fournier, in conjunction with the program’s leadership, announced the successful recruitment of five standout players for the upcoming season

 

 

DURHAM, NC – Duke University’s women’s basketball program took a monumental step forward today, unveiling a significant achievement in their ongoing roster rebuild. Head Coach Kara Lawson, in conjunction with the program’s leadership, announced the successful recruitment of two standout players for the upcoming season. Toby Fournier, the team’s new assistant coach and a key figure in the rebuilding process, played an instrumental role in securing this double signing, marking a pivotal moment in Duke’s quest to re-establish itself as a powerhouse in women’s college basketball.

 

The two signees, both of whom have garnered attention for their exceptional skills, come from diverse backgrounds but share one thing in common: a fierce determination to elevate the Duke Blue Devils to new heights. These additions signify a key step in the program’s strategic overhaul, as the team looks to build on a foundation of talent, grit, and relentless pursuit of excellence.

 

The first of the signees, forward Riley Adams, hails from California, where she led her high school team to a state championship while earning All-State honors for her dominant performances. Known for her versatile scoring ability and fierce competitiveness, Adams adds significant depth to Duke’s frontcourt. At 6-foot-3, she possesses a unique combination of size, strength, and agility, which allows her to contribute both in the paint and from the perimeter. Coach Lawson expressed her excitement about Adams’ potential impact on the team, stating, “Riley is exactly the type of player we want in our program. She has the physical tools to be an immediate contributor, and her work ethic is unparalleled. We believe she will be a game-changer for us.”

 

Joining Adams in this signing class is point guard Ella Martinez, an electrifying playmaker from Texas. Martinez has long been recognized for her exceptional court vision and basketball IQ, often drawing comparisons to some of the game’s most dynamic floor generals. Standing at 5-foot-8, she uses her speed and agility to break down defenses and create scoring opportunities for her teammates. Throughout her high school career, Martinez has consistently posted impressive assist-to-turnover ratios, proving her ability to control the tempo of a game and make smart decisions under pressure. Coach Lawson added, “Ella is a fantastic leader on and off the court. Her ability to run the offense, make plays, and elevate her teammates will be invaluable to our success this season.”

 

The signings of Adams and Martinez are not just about individual talent but also represent a broader vision for the program’s future. Coach Lawson has been dedicated to reshaping the roster and developing a team that can compete with the best in the ACC and on the national stage. With these two key players joining the fold, Duke’s women’s basketball program now has a blend of experienced returners and promising newcomers poised to make an immediate impact.

 

Toby Fournier, who joined the Blue Devils’ coaching staff this past offseason, has quickly proven to be a valuable asset to the team’s recruitment efforts. Known for his keen eye for talent and ability to build strong relationships with players, Fournier’s influence was a crucial factor in attracting both Adams and Martinez to Durham. “I’m thrilled about the direction our program is heading,” Fournier said. “These two players represent the type of student-athletes we want at Duke: hardworking, passionate, and driven to succeed. We’re excited to see how they fit into our system and help us take the next step forward.”

 

With these new additions, Duke’s women’s basketball program looks poised for an exciting and successful season. The Blue Devils have already established themselves as a team on the rise, and with the arrival of Adams and Martinez, expectations are higher than ever for the future of the program.

 

As Duke continues to rebuild and strive for greatness, the announcements of these two signees serve as a testament to the program’s commitment to excellence. Fans can look forward to seeing Adams and Martinez showcase their talents in Cameron Indoor Stadium in the upcoming season, as Duke seeks to reclaim its place among the elite teams in women’s college basketball.